While they might be traditionally “beautiful,” the next snake in list of adorable weirdos, the Tentacled Snake (erpeton tentaculatum) is one of the most fascinating predators on the planet, and a remarkable example of the adaptability of snakes.
An entirely aquatic freshwater species from Southeast Asia, the conspicuous tentacles on their snout are used to detect water pressure/motion, which they use in a unique hunting strategy. They form a J-shape with their body in the water, and wait for a fish to swim past. Detecting the fish’s presence with their tentacles, they perform a “rippling” motion with their neck-muscles. This triggers an instinctual flight-response in the fish, and they always try to swim off in the same direction… directly into the snake’s mouth. They’re a mildly-venomous, rear-fanged snake, but pose no danger to humans. With their hunting-strategy being the subject of research papers, and their unique sensory gifts, they’re a unique and fascinating species!
